“Fatshimetrie”, the popular online newspaper that closely follows the recent event of the trial for the “attempted coup” in Kinshasa, reported the deliberations of the military court that took place on Friday, September 13. The verdict was pronounced in this case that captured the attention of the entire country.
Of the 51 defendants tried, 37 were sentenced to death, while 14 were acquitted by the court. Among the convicts were six foreigners, including three Americans and three naturalized Congolese from Canada, the United Kingdom and Belgium. The naturalized Belgian military expert, Jean-Jacques Wondo, was identified by the court as the mastermind of this “attempted coup” and was convicted of criminal association, attack and terrorism.
However, the defense lawyers expressed their disagreement with the harsh sentences handed down, stressing that the death penalty is considered abolished by the Congolese Constitution. They have stated their intention to appeal this decision.
Among the 14 defendants acquitted were the staff of the hotel “Chez Momo Auberge” where the members of the commando unit had been staying, as well as Faustin Egwake, head of the transport agency used by the defendants, and his staff. The investigation showed that they had no connection with the events that took place.
This verdict by the Kinshasa military court has sparked many reactions within Congolese society, highlighting security and justice issues in the country. The aftermath of this case will be closely followed by “Fatshimetrie” to inform its readers of any developments.